Stems are geotropic and will bend up if placed horizontally. Treating with an anti-ethylene product to reduce flower/bud drop was reported by some to reduce stem bending when placed in a horizontal position. However, other researchers dispute this finding claiming that both ethylene synthesis and action inhibitors have no effect on stem bending. Researchers do agree that these anti-ethylene products can inhibit flower stalk (scape) elongation growth after harvest.

Family Roots:

Member of the Liliaceae (lily family).

Native to South Africa.

Common relatives include tulip, hyacinth, crocus and daylily.

Personality:

Has tubular flowers pointing downward in a dense terminal spike.

Stems are leafless (scape), 24-32 inches long,

Plant is a herbaceous perennial from a rhizome, classed as a monocotyledon, leaves mostly parallel veined.

Flowers are not fragrant.

Availability: Summer - early fall.

Flower Color: Red, orange, yellow, combinations.

Storage Specifics: From 36-41 F, upright in water for up to 5 days.

Tidbits:

Named for Johann Hieronymous Kniphof (1704-1763).

Great spike flower having bright, hot colors. Looks like a torch burning, hence one of its common names.

Plants perform very well in a garden setting for years with few pests.